February 22 has been identified as "Walking the Dog Day," but any responsible dog owner knows that every day is walking the dog day - or should be.

According to VCA Animal Hospitals, walking is often recommended by veterinarians as a key aspect of a weight-loss plan for dogs. While creating a structured walking regimen can help your pet lose extra weight if it needs to, it is also an important aspect of the animal's overall behavior and physical well-being.

Some breeds need more exercise than others, and a dog's walking routine should be adjusted based on its age, size and breed. According to Animal Planet, dogs that belong to the herding, sporting and working breed groups tend to need the most exercise, as they were originally bred to be extremely active. Dogs in the non-sporting and toy breed groups, on the other hand, need less vigorous exercise. All pets need exercise to maintain a healthy weight and ward off conditions like canine diabetes or arthritis.

VCA reports that if a dog needs to burn serious calories, it is important to give it plenty of flexibility in its collars and leashes. Using a leash and collar can compress the trachea when the dog pulls, and choke chains or any other similar collars can do the same. Instead, owners should opt for head halters or walking harnesses to keep the canine safe and secure.

Please call us at 630-301-6100. We are located at 2600 West Galena Blvd. Aurora, IL 60506.

We provide the highest standard in veterinary emergency and critical care services. We are trained and equipped to perform a variety of emergency surgeries and procedures. We provide the highest standards of pain management. Emergency internal medicine consultations, including full diagnostics, are available.

Please call or come in immediately if you feel your pet is having an emergency or needs after-hours care.